On December 30, which also happens to be my birthday, I was scouring the internet when I stumbled across a group of two year old colts in dire need of rescue. If they were not taken, they were destined for auction which would ultimately lead to their untimely end at the hands of a killer-buyer - someone who sends horses to slaughter. So the following day, I headed out on what would become a life changing experience.
The quarter horse filly was much tinier than I had expected, standing at a measly 13 hands. Her long flax mane was gnarled into dreadlocks and the aroma of cow manure was emanating from her badly matted coat. It was obvious she was nervous by the way the whites of her eyes flashed, her nostrils flared, and her constant shrill cries rang out from her lungs. But looking past this, she was also much prettier than I had expected. She had a very girlish figure with a refined, baby-doll head. Her color was a rich fox red with silver roan hairs coming out over her flanks and withers. So I made the decision to take a risk on this filly, who was badly in need.
Vixen quickly became her name - Vixie for a nickname - due to her fox-like appearance in both color and build. She was tiny and refined, so sleek and lithe. I have been working with her for 30 days now and she has proved to be a remarkable little mare. She has gained a considerable amount of weight and after a much needed bath, she smells much better - and looks it too! After a lot of time spent learning manners on the ground I've been able to get up on her back and walk around. Not a bit of protest! Just yesterday was the first day she wore a saddle. You would have thought she was a seasoned ranch hand by the way she didn't even flinch. She takes everything in stride, conquers her fears. You can see the willingness in her eyes, that desperate need to please her handler. That is what truly makes her stand out. Perhaps she recognizes the dire situation she was in before and is all the more thankful to have someone in her life that cares.
